Project Overview
Each year 20-25 4-Hers receive 25 pullets to raise and care for. Later in the year, each participant is required to bring four of their best pullets to the poultry show and sale. These 4 pullets will be judged and auctioned. The remaining pullets are yours to keep. Prize money and ribbons will be awarded based on the quality of your pullets. The money raised from the auction will be used to buy chicks for the following year.
4-Hers have the opportunity to complete records and have them judged at the Show. 4-Hers completing records and entering them at the show will earn a ribbon and additional premium money.
If you do not return 4 pullets to the sale for any reason, you will be charged the average price at the sale for your 4 pullets. If you fail to pay for those pullets, you will not be eligible to participate in the Chick Chain Program until the fee is paid.
If you are interested in raising chicks, fill out the application below. Applications are due December 15th, 2023 by 4:30 PM CST. We will order approximately 500-600 black star pullets which means only 20-25 4-H members can participate. Applications will be selected on a first come, first serve and club participation. 4-Hers will be notified between January 3rd-5th if they are to receive pullets as a part of this program.
If you are selected, you will be notified when to pick up your chicks at the Extension Office.
If you have questions, call (423) 949-2611.
Biosecurity and Avian Influenza links
- Tennessee Department of Agriculture
- USDA Defend the Flock Program
- Defend the Flock – #FlockDefender Youth Program
- UT Avian Influenza Page
Timeline
- Dec 15, 2023 Application due
- Jan 3-5, 2024 Notifications sent to selected participants
- February, Mandatory meeting with selected participants
- Mid-March Chicks arrive
- August 2024 Poultry Show and Sale
Project Materials
- Application Please complete and deliver or mail to the address on the application by December 15th, 2023
- Growing Blue Ribbon Pullets
- Poultry Project Record Book
- Food and Safety Quality: Handling Eggs and Poultry Safely at Home
Other Materials
(links are provided for your convenience UT Extension does not endorse any commercial claims or products mentioned on any of these sites)